MEDIA RELEASE

On September 27, 2005, Kona police received a report of a male party that sustained a gunshot wound to the abdomen, while at a residence in Milolii, South Kona. Upon responding to the residence, officers arrested a 61-year-old male for Assault and recovered a .22 caliber rifle in the investigation.

The victim has been identified as Justin Llanes-Fomai, M-18, of Milolii, who was transported by Fire Rescue to Kona Community Hospital where he was admitted.

At this time, the victim’s condition has improved to serious, but stable condition.

The investigation has revealed that the shooting appears to be accidental. The suspect, an acquaintance of the victim, has been released pending further investigation.

Detectives from the West Hawaii Criminal Investigation Section are continuing their investigation.